Page 37 of Love & Heart Braking

“Which is why I’m here. And I have an idea. Rion doesn’t need to know that we’ve spoken yet. I can call him with a match—you, obviously—and feel out the ground. If he gives me permission to call you, then we’ll know he’s still carrying a torch for you. If not, then you won’t need to feel awkward the next time you see him. Deal?”

It didn’t matter what age you were, this part of dating always filled a person with excitement.

And that excitement filled her voice now. “I don’t know. What do you think he’ll say?”

Hell yes. “We won’t know unless we try. Are you game?”

“It’s daunting.” She paused. “You seem to know my son more than I’d thought. What do you think he’ll say if I date Rion?”

That seeing this man with his mother would be more palatable to him than any other. I repeated what I’d said to her once before. “He’s a grown man, and he wants his mother to be happy. Even if he’s surprised, he’ll be all for it in no time when he sees your smiles.”

She took a breath. “I guess calling Rion can’t hurt then. I’m game.”

I bounced on my seat. “Great. I’ll get back to you as soon as I’ve made contact.”

“I’m a bundle of nerves now. Is this normal?”

When you were half afraid and half excited over the answer? Yep. And it was a great sign. “Normal. But don’t worry. I’ve got this.”

“I think you do, Cerys. Thank you!”

I said my goodbyes and hung up.

Bain was sitting on the love seat. “Your soul glows when you speak of love.”

“Because it brings me joy.”

“Seeing your joy brings me joy. My thanks.”

I looked at the unicorn, who appeared weary. “Do you miss the fields and your herd, Bain?”

“I miss them as much as I blame them.”

I think that was unicorn for yes. “Ever think about going back?”

“When the corruption is thickest, I find my heart yearning to return. That is when I redouble my efforts to remove the stench of greed and lies from Nepos. I will not be weak. There is a need for me here.”

“I don’t know what you do to help out, but thank you for being the kind of person who stands up instead of backing down.”

The unicorn smiled. “Your words warm my heart.”

I walked over and sat opposite him. “What’s the verdict on the contract?”

He picked up the thick document he’d placed on the coffee table. “Fenton, Angry Man, Gug, and I met last night. This is what we have put together. I believe it is airtight.”

“What if the twelve refuse the deal?”

Bain shook his head. “It is very unlikely. Mostly because they have no qualms about breaking a contract.”

Oh goodie.

I took the document from him. “I just take this with me on the weekend?”

My stomach swooped at the thought. I’d managed to put the meeting out of mind since first receiving the contract. I’d only been informed that a carriage would meet me on Saturday evening.

“Correct. But are you certain you wish to deal with these corrupt souls, young one?” he asked.

I smiled at his clear concern. “There ain’t no getting rid of them doing what I’m doing. Yes, I’m sure. How old are you to be calling me young one anyway?”

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